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Southern Candied Yams

Southern Candied Yams

  • Author: Marcus
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Southern Candied Yams offer a warm, rich sweetness with a gentle hint of natural spice. This plant-based recipe features tender yams coated in a luscious syrup made from pantry staples and natural ingredients. Perfect as a comforting side dish or centerpiece for holidays and family dinners, these yams deliver classic Southern flavors with a healthy twist that everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale

Yams

  • 4 cups fresh yams, peeled and sliced into rounds or chunks

Candied Syrup

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (plant-based)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted plant-based butter
  • 1/4 cup orange juice (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (natural)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (natural)
  • 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Yams: Peel and slice the yams into uniform rounds or chunks to ensure even cooking and optimal syrup absorption. Rinse the sliced yams in a large bowl to remove excess starch and set aside.
  2. Make the Candied Syrup: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted plant-based butter. Stir in the brown sugar, orange juice, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and natural gelling agent. Simmer gently, stirring frequently, until the syrup becomes thick and glossy.
  3. Combine and Bake: Transfer the sliced yams into a baking dish. Pour the hot syrup evenly over the yams and toss gently to coat each piece thoroughly. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the syrup is bubbly and caramelized.
  4. Final Touches: Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the syrup to caramelize further and develop a beautiful glaze. After baking, let the dish cool slightly to let the sauce thicken and enhance its richness before serving.

Notes

  • Select firm yams with smooth skin for the best texture and natural sweetness.
  • Slice yams evenly to ensure uniform cooking and an appealing presentation.
  • Bake at moderate temperature to prevent burning and meld flavors.
  • Stir the syrup regularly during cooking to prevent sticking and clumping.
  • Allow the dish to rest post-baking for the syrup to thicken naturally.
  • Optionally garnish with toasted pecans, chopped fresh parsley, or a light dusting of ground cinnamon.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to four days or frozen for up to two months.
  • Reheat gently in the oven to preserve texture and syrup consistency.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Southern Candied Yams, plant-based yams, candied yams recipe, vegan side dish, sweet and spicy yams, holiday side dish

Find it online: https://tastysoulkitchen.com/southern-candied-yams/